Taste: There seems to be a formula to the “Session IPA,” yet some
breweries hit it out of the park and others strike out. Lagunitas
DayTime is definitely is one of the former as it has both great taste
and complexity – qualities you don’t tend to get in a small brew like
this.

Many session IPAs tend to taste like hoppy water, but this one has a
genuine malt foundation to it. Light, pilsner-like malts with just a
hint of smokiness or bready character. The hops are quite prominent to
say the least. A strong spicy sensation at first with herbal
characteristics. They transition to something earthier, like pine
needles through the middle and finish with a classic lemony citrusy
flavor on the finish. Usually, this type of palette would grow old
quick, but in this case it works perfectly.

Drinkability: This beer does exactly what it’s supposed to do: deliver
big flavor while still being refreshing and sessionable. The mouthfeel
is thin and crisp, but always smooth going down and leaves nary an
aftertaste (maybe a hint of lemon peel). At 4.65% ABV it’s definitely in
the session-able range for most people, though considering how good it
tastes and easy it drinks, I doubt many people will have a problem
throwing back a few of these (if only it came in cans!).

63.3 - 3.5B-ABOVE AVERAGEThe lowest I can rate a beer and still honestly give it a thumbs up. The attributes are enough to overshadow the flaws. Nothing I'd jump for joy about, but a drinkable, satisfactory beer to be sure.

53.0 - 3.2C+AVERAGE/NEUTRALNot quite a good beer, not quite a bad beer. I don't have a strong opinion either way about it. There may be something to like here, but there's also something holding it back.

42.8 - 2.9CBELOW AVERAGEThe best of the worst. A beer with noticeable flaws and perhaps some minor attributes. Tolerable for a serving, but no reason to seek it out. A genuine thumbs down, but not something I despise.

32.6 - 2.7C-TOLERABLEWhile not the worst beer, there's probably nothing about it that I like. Plenty of off-putting features. I can tolerate a single serving, but would recommend avoiding it.